New SBA Regional Administrator Sworn InNorthwest attorney appointed to oversee four-state region

“A packed crowd of well-wishers gathered Monday evening in the Seattle offices of the U.S. Small Business Administration to witness the swearing-in of Joann Francis as the SBA’s new Northwest regional administrator.Francis was appointed by President Clinton to oversee the SBA’s four-state region that includes Washington.U.S. District Court Judge Monica Benton administered the oath, which was followed by a standing ovation. Francis recognized all seven of her siblings, family and colleagues during her sometimes emotional speech.I believe entrepreneurialism is a way to social and economic justice, Francis said. Trying to open up doors of opportunity is why I came to SBA.Photo: Newly appointed SBA Regional Administrator Joann Francis, left, with Sharon Barber, Assistant District Director for Tacoma at the swearing-in ceremony, Monday.”